Predicted Kaizer Chiefs XI vs Pirates: One suspended, two doubts, one huge surprise
Some surprise names here.
Kaizer Chiefs have several new faces at the club. Will any of them play in the Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates?
Kaizer Chiefs herald in a new era
Bradley Cross, Rushwin Dortley, Inacio Miguel and Gaston Sirino have all embedded themselves into the Chiefs setup but none have stepped out into the cauldron of a Soweto Derby before. Brand new signings Glody Lilepo and Thabo Cele will hope to also stamp their mark on the fixture but their involvement depends on a work permit and match sharpness respectively. New 30-year-old striker Tashreeq Morris, however, must wait a little longer as he’s suspended for this clash. Chiefs boss Nasreddine Nabi will hope for a cohesive performance from his backline, against a Pirates attack bristling with quality. Impressive young striker Wandile Duba has been cruelly ruled out of the fixture with a serious injury.
Predicted XI vs Orlando Pirates
Bvuma; Blom, Miguel, Dortley, Cross; Maart, Mthethwa; Vilakazi, Shabalala, Mmodi; Chivaviro.
Coach Nasreddine Nabi must again find a solution to his striker shortage with Glody Lilepo unlikely to get work permit clearance in time and Duba ruled out. Pule Mmodi, scorer of a brace in the 4-0 win over Free Agents, has made a huge case for a place in the XI. Gaston Sirino is an option wide in attack too but fan favourite Mfundo Vilakazi could get the nod. Mduduzi Shabalala will start in the number 10 role.
Fixture details
Orlando Stadium plays host to another battle between these arch-rivals. The latest chapter will be written on Saturday 01 February with kickoff at 15:30
H2H stats in the Soweto Derby
Pirates have held the upper hand in recent meetings between these great rivals. The Buccaneers have won the last three meetings across all competitions, including each of the last two in the league, most recently that 3-2 success for the Sea Robbers in March 2024 with Monnapule Saleng bagging a double. That stopped a curious and somewhat surprising run of five consecutive wins for Chiefs in Soweto Derby league clashes with the Sea Robbers. These rivals lock horns again on Saturday 01 February at Orlando Stadium from 15:30.
Who do you think holds the key to unlocking this massive occasion?
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